Murder accused appears in court

Two men arrested in connection with the killing of a young Levin father have appeared in the Palmerston North District Court today.

Mihaylo Stoyan Militch, 31, from Levin, is charged with murdering Michael Les Valentine. He is also charged with assaulting Valentine using a sharpening steel as a weapon.

Michael Paul Zimmerman, 29, a Levin factory-hand, also faces a charge of assault with a weapon.

Mr Valentine was found at his property 7km north of Levin about 8.30pm on Friday. A post-mortem conducted on Sunday determined Mr Valentine had died from a single stab wound to the chest.

Lawyer Simon Hewson, who represents Militch, also appeared as duty solicitor for Zimmerman. He advised Judge David Smith that bail would not be sought.

Both men were remanded in custody with Militch due to appear in the Levin District Court on February 13. Zimmerman was also remanded to the Levin District Court but is due to reappear on Thursday.

"I'm anticipating some disclosure between now and that date that would allow me to assess the strength of that case and perhaps a bail application," he said in regards to Militch.

Mr Hewson said he has advised Zimmerman to have a lawyer present at his next appearance.

Supporters for both the victim and Militch stood outside court. Neither men spoke during their appearance.

- Alecia Bailey of the Manawatu Guardian

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